Aqualyx- Fat-dissolving treatment

Fat-dissolving treatment as its name suggests is a nonsurgical procedure of dissolving stubborn localised fat by injecting a gel-based aqueous solution into the area needed. The solution used is called Aqualyx® and the method is called Aqualysis. Aqualyx® is a compound solution from the deoxycholate family that has been physically modified and, by creating a slow-release sugar-based system, the biological half-life is reduced which results in minimal side effects 

Excessive fat is stored in localised areas to be used for energy later, forming subcutaneous fat cells, which are generally difficult to either get rid of or even diminish. Aqualyx® contains an active substance (a synthetic variant of Deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring acid in the stomach) which latches onto the fat cell wall, breaking it down and making it unstable and causing the release of fatty acid and cell residue into the lymphatic system.

Effects can be seen after one fat-dissolving treatment, although, Ideally, optimal effects are normally seen after two sessions. Depending on the areas treated, 2-8 Aqualyx sessions may be needed, 4 weeks apart between treatments, until desired results are seen. The results are long-lasting as long as a healthy lifestyle of proper diet, exercise and body care is adopted.

Every time you step into Linora Aesthetics in Lincoln, you undergo a full consultation, completion of a medical questionnaire (which you have filled in before coming in), and, if needed, a cool-off period before your treatment.

The full consultation involves discussing your needs and a physical examination of the areas in question. This is followed by deciding whether Aqualyx is beneficial for you. The possible complications and risks will also be discussed at length, as well as other concerns that need addressing. It is also important to discuss realistic expectations of the treatment so that both parties are satisfied with the outcome.

Once the discussion is completed, the medical questionnaire will be reviewed, to ensure that any medications or recent interventions to the areas in question are discussed to minimise the risks. It will also help to formulate a proper treatment plan.

At the end of the consultation, the price of the treatment will be discussed and a cool-off period will be offered if required. At this point, it is up to you to decide whether you want a cool-off period or would like to proceed with the procedure. Once you have made an informed decision, you will sign a consent form electronically. Photographs will be taken as part of the medical record, and for marketing purposes (it is important to inform Dr Alya if this is an issue).

On treatment day, photographs may be taken as well. Once seated, a topical anaesthetic cream will be applied for 20-30 minutes, and then, it will be removed. In the meantime, if make-up is worn, it will be removed, and the skin area being treated will be cleansed and disinfected.

The areas targeted will be marked with a white pencil. The fat-dissolving treatment takes approximately 1 hour depending on how many areas are being treated. It is important to allow as much time as possible, as Dr Alya's philosophy is that each work should be a work of art.

Once the treatment is complete, the treated area will be cleaned. The results and the bumps at injection sites will be shown to you and discussed to ensure that both Dr Alya and you are satisfied. Before leaving, you will be given the opportunity for a follow-up appointment (usually 4-6 weeks later) for a second Aqualyx session as well as to what post-treatment aftercare involves.

1. Pain. There should be minimal pain as a numbing cream is applied, and if done by a trained professional. The treated areas may feel tender and tight for up to 2 months post-treatment. If the pain is beyond expectation, contact Dr Alya as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. 
2. Bruising. They can be small or large, but they usually are self-limiting.
3. Redness. It is normal for the skin to be erythematous/ red after it was pricked by a needle, and it usually self-resolves. However, if it persists and feels warm/hot, please contact Dr Alya to discuss your symptoms.
4. Swelling. There will be swelling post-treatment, especially on the second day. However, they are self-limiting. They can, however, be noted especially on facial treatment.
5. Discharges. The risk of infection should be minimal as Dr Alya has very strong hygiene ethics and IPC in place. She performs her art in a sterile environment as possible. If the areas treated feel hot red with discharges, contact Dr Alya ASAP for a review.
6. Anaphylaxis.  This is a serious allergic reaction to either lidocaine or the filler used, which can cause shortness of breath, voice hoarseness, wheezing, cough, swelling of the tongue, eyelids and lips, nausea and vomiting. This is a medical emergency*

*Dr Alya always prioritises safety and has an emergency kit to handle unexpected side effects.